How to Keep Snow From Sticking to a Satellite Dish

Kenneth Coppens

Satellite dishes are a popular, and often cheaper, alternative to cable television. When installed, satellite dishes are precisely aimed at a certain point in the air to receive signals from a satellite transponder. While satellite dishes generally get good reception, certain weather conditions such as heavy snowfall can affect it negatively. When snow gathers on a satellite dish, it can block the signal, and the weight of the snow may even be enough to shift the dish from its ideal location.

A satellite dish on the side of a house.

Step 1

Set up a ladder to get access to the satellite dish. Make sure the ladder is secure in order to reduce the risk of injury.

Step 2

Wipe the satellite dish clean with a damp washcloth.

Step 3

Spray the entire dish with cooking oil spray. The oil will form a slippery barrier that snow or rain cannot penetrate.

Step 4

Keep an eye on the satellite dish, as you may need to do two or more applications throughout the winter. Apply more oil as soon as you see snow sticking to the dish.